The whole process from cutting and working the leather is done by hand. Stitching the different parts together is done using the classic saddle stitch. This is an old craft technique where you manually stitch leather parts together using two needles and special thread. It is an inspiring craft to learn: from making the holes with the special forks to finishing the edges with polish. This is a tool you use in combination with a cream for leather that gives the edges of your product a subtle finesse. You also use classic tools like a folding bone and a wetlat to sharpen your knife. Famous old fashion houses still make their leather bags in this old-fashioned way, even though the contemporary industrial leather sewing machine is many times faster.
In this course, you will make your own products from vegetable-tanned leather.
You can choose to make either one larger project such as a laptop cover or a selected number of smaller items such as a phone bag, (credit) card holder or watch strap.
You get to work with a variety of tools and learn different skills and techniques like the saddle stitch. You will learn a lot about craftmanship and attention to detail to create your own beautiful pieces. If you do smaller items, a bit of pattern making will also be part of the course.
Schedule & enrolment
Teachers
Morten Clausen
Morten Clausen took the year-long training to become a skilled bag maker with Roos van Put and is now a teacher at cursustassenmaken.nl. He has a great passion for saddle stitch bag making and for the fine detailed work involved. His passion and knowledge includes both machine stitching and traditional saddle stitching. He has his own label called Official Morten Clausen Leather.
Rates
Category 1 - Student
Category 2 - TU Delft employee
Category 3 - Other
You do not need an X-subscription to follow this course. However, you do need an account in our webshop, which yo can create with your NetID. Don't have a NetID? Then drop by X to create an account.
Practical Information
The Open Studio Leatherworking is accessible after completing a leatherworking course with an X-subscription, when an assistant is present. All you need to do beforehand is register. The assistant is there to help, advice and ensure that all materials and equipment are used responsibly and safely.
During the Open Studio Leatherworking, you are free to work with the techniques, tools, and materials you were instructed on during the course lessons. Additionally, materials such as leather scraps, thread, and other consumables are available for purchase.